In today’s Gospel, Jesus begins His public ministry with a bold declaration from the prophet Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.” This moment is significant, not just for the people in the synagogue in Nazareth, but for all of humanity. Jesus announces His mission—a mission deeply rooted in bringing hope, healing, and liberation to those most in need. Pope Francis reminds us that evangelization is not limited to words; it is lived through actions that embody the Gospel. To evangelize the poor means to draw close to them, serve them, and free them from whatever oppresses them.

As Catholics, we share in Christ’s mission by virtue of our baptism. We are called to evangelize—not only with our words but also through our lives. This mission is not just about social work or charity; it is the proclamation of the Gospel that transforms hearts and relationships through the power of Christ. As we reflect on this Gospel and its challenge, we might ask ourselves: are we faithful to Jesus’ mission in our community here in Central Maine? Do our lives reflect the same commitment to bringing the Good News to the poor, the marginalized, and the spiritually hungry?

This Sunday also marks the beginning of Catholic Schools Week, an annual celebration of Catholic education across the United States. Since 1974, Catholic Schools Week has highlighted the value of Catholic education to young people, families, and the Church. This year’s theme, “Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community,” emphasizes the unique role Catholic schools play in forming students’ minds, bodies, and spirits in faith-filled environments. 

This past summer, I attended the Pastors with Catholic Schools Conference at Notre Dame University. One speaker made a powerful statement that has stayed with me: “A Catholic school is a blessing.” While the challenges of declining enrollment, rising tuition, and staffing complexities are real, the speaker encouraged us to focus on the mission of Catholic schools as an essential and tangible way that the Church participates in Christ’s work. Every parish has a mission, but for those with a Catholic school, the mission is clear and concrete. We do not need to search for our purpose; our school embodies our call to evangelize and serve by educating young minds and hearts in faith. Here at St. Michael Parish, we are blessed to have St. Michael School. It is not just a part of our parish; it is central to our mission to share the Good News.

Catholic schools are vital to parishes, families, Church and society. They form young people not only academically but also spiritually, teaching them to live as faithful disciples of Christ. In Catholic schools, students learn to see the world through the eyes of faith and are encouraged to integrate their beliefs into every aspect of their lives. For families, Catholic schools provide an environment where faith is not just taught but lived. Parents, as the primary educators of their children, partner with teachers to create a community where students grow in knowledge and virtue. This partnership strengthens the faith life of the family and the parish, building a foundation for lifelong discipleship. In the broader community, Catholic schools serve as a beacon of hope and a witness to the transformative power of Christ’s love. By fostering a culture of service, discipline, and academic excellence, Catholic schools equip students to become compassionate leaders and contributors to society. Graduates of Catholic schools carry with them a strong moral foundation and a commitment to serving others, living out the Gospel in their personal and professional lives.

I believe there is a misconception that some people have about Catholic schools. They think the primary purpose of Catholic schools is to put Catholics in our Church pews. While that may be a consequence of a good Catholic school, it is not it's primary purpose. Sometimes people complain that the families of a Catholic school don’t attend Mass regularly or that a school has a high ratio of non-Catholic students. But do we approach other works of mercy with the same concerns? Do we refuse to feed the hungry or clothe the naked because they are not Catholic? Of course not. We serve because it is Christ’s mission, and we see the face of Christ in those we serve. Catholic education must be viewed in the same way—as a vital work of mercy.

The most profound form of poverty is poverty of the spirit. This kind of poverty drains life of joy, energy, and purpose, and unlike material poverty, it can last forever. Billy Graham once told a story of a wealthy man who confessed that despite having every material comfort, he was utterly miserable. This man suffered from moral poverty, lacking the truth, goodness, and beauty the human spirit needs to thrive. Catholic schools address this poverty by offering more than academic excellence; they provide students with the opportunity to encounter Christ, the Bread of Life, who nourishes the deepest hunger of the soul.

In addition to meeting academic needs, Catholic schools fulfill the Church’s mission to perform spiritual works of mercy: teaching truth, offering guidance, and providing hope. These schools nourish the hearts and souls of children, preparing them not only for success in this life but also for the life to come. Every student and family we serve deserves to hear the Gospel, and Catholic schools ensure they encounter the face of Christ in their education.

St. John Chrysostom reminds us that the goods we possess are not ours alone but belong to those in need. Catholic schools embody this teaching by sharing the gift of faith and education with all students. Thus supporting Catholic education is not just about academics; it is about evangelization, justice, and mercy. Through our school, our parish participates in Christ’s mission to bring truth, hope, and love to a world in need. St. Michael School is truly a work of mercy, a blessing to our Church and community.

This week, let us celebrate Catholic Schools Week with gratitude, recognizing the role our school plays in shaping lives and advancing Christ’s mission. I invite all of us to pray for our students, teachers, and families as we continue this important work together. Together, let us ensure that our Catholic school remains a place where Christ’s mission of hope and love thrives.